Scoping Study on SDG Goal 5: Achieve Gender Equality and Empower All Women and Girls
Author: Dannela Jann B. Galias, Ann D. Umadhay
Abstract:
The fifth of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) established by the United Nations in 2015, SDG Goal 5 is focused on ending gender disparities, eliminating gender-related violence and early and forced marriage, securing equal participation and opportunities for leadership and decision-making, and providing universal access to sexual, health, and reproductive rights. As an integral part of human rights and a necessary foundation for social cohesion and prosperity, monitoring gender equality is crucial for sustainable development. Globally, almost all SDG 5 indicators are conceptually clear and have internationally established methodology and standards, albeit some still have no regular data available. In the Philippines, however, five indicators are still tagged as either Tier II or Tier III, alongside one indicator that is not currently monitored. Out of 14 SDG 5 indicators, only nine have reported estimates under the SDG Watch Philippines. This calls for further methodological research with the goal of raising the current tier classifications of the indicators and providing baseline information. For this reason, this scoping study seeks to review existing global and local definitions and methodologies, baseline estimates, data sources, and gaps in monitoring Tier II and Tier III indicators of SDG 5, through literature review and consultations with national focal agencies and relevant stakeholders. Moreover, this study ultimately aims to identify which among the reviewed indicators should be prioritized for further methodological research study.
Keywords:SDG 5, gender equality, women empowerment